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Updated: Jun 17, 2025

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
New Drugs for Targeted Radionuclide Therapy in Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Kévin Hébert1, Paul Bodin-Cufi1, Cyril Fersing2
1Nuclear Medicine Department, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
Abstract:
Metastatic prostate cancer is a frequent and fatal disease. Targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) has become a readily available therapeutic option since the approval of [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617. Various molecules are currently being studied for TRT in prostate cancer. We review various combinations of isotopes and vectors being used to target prostate cancer cells and optimize pharmacokinetics. Promising innovations include chemical modifications to improve biodistribution, identification of new targets, and the use of novel radioisotopes such as α emitters. PATIENT SUMMARY: Our mini review summarizes research on targeted radioactive drugs for treatment of metastatic prostate cancer. Several promising radioactive pharmaceuticals are being evaluated in clinical trials, but more studies are necessary before these can be used in routine clinical practice.
Insights
Targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) offers new hope for metastatic prostate cancer. Research is exploring novel radioactive drugs and targets to improve treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry
Background:
- Metastatic prostate cancer is a significant cause of cancer-related death.
- Targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) has emerged as a viable treatment option, notably with [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617 approval.
- Ongoing research focuses on expanding TRT options for prostate cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and emerging strategies for targeted radionuclide therapy in prostate cancer.
- To discuss the combination of different isotopes and targeting vectors.
- To highlight innovations aimed at optimizing treatment efficacy and patient biodistribution.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research in targeted radionuclide therapy for prostate cancer.
- Analysis of various isotope-vector combinations for prostate cancer cell targeting.
- Evaluation of strategies for pharmacokinetic optimization.
Main Results:
- Several molecules are under investigation for TRT in prostate cancer.
- Innovations include chemical modifications for improved biodistribution and new target identification.
- Novel radioisotopes, including alpha emitters, show promise.
Conclusions:
- Targeted radionuclide therapy is a rapidly evolving field for metastatic prostate cancer.
- Promising radioactive pharmaceuticals are in clinical trials.
- Further research is essential to integrate these novel therapies into routine clinical practice.

